Another front group trying to gain acceptance, the “Tampa Bay Charity Coalition” — somehow they leave out the word scientology from their title.
Their Facebook page features one of their events in the Ft Harrison ballroom — though it looks like they photoshopped the “Flag” logo on the backdrop so it’s not readable.
This “Film Festival” is a thinly disguised excuse to show their “human rights” infomercials.
You can see there is massive interest in this event…
You have to wonder what an “Official Selection” means?
No doubt they “selected” the infomercials produced for WTH Fdn and Youth For Human Rights.
They try to make it look like this is the Cannes Film Festival or something.
I guess this is their counter-programming to the Emmy’s… Very lame.
OMG, that PICTURE! I don’t think many people have seen so much of the Ballroom’s parquet floor since we swept it clear back in ’75. The place was more packed when it was Flag’s Academy.
Swept clear of the FH Kludge or the stuff from the Apollo?
I followed Tranette’s linked name on her comment to the website for a women’s advocacy organization named S.H.E. On their contact form, I sent this missive:
“RE: The “Tranette” comment on Mike Rinder’s blog of 8/21:
Firstly, your dialogue indicates a vast lack of knowledge concerning the larcenous, evil cult you so lavishly praise. Next, the many typos, fractured syntax, and general incoherence of your verbiage points to either a hurried composition, “spoon feeding” by a scientology handler, or both. Rest assured, we who have learned the truth of the Co$ death machine, either by escaping its nefarious clutches or diligently studying the wealth of revelatory blogs (Mr. Rinder’s being among the most informative), books, and televised documentaries, recognize drivel trying to conceal propaganda when we see it.”
I’ll post here any response they give me.
As I stated, instead of you mocking my typos etc, you could have kindly sent me information to educate and lighten me… That’s that the purpose right?
I’m was not here to disagree with anyone. I simply shared my experience. Now, if you were upset about my post.. All you had to do was inform me. Attacking me only made me see the evil of you, I sure you’re an awesome person. Next time, instead of going left field and calling people name… How about educating and enlighten…
People like you give me life to push through my disability …. Unapologetic imperfect!
If you would like to educate and enlighten me by all means, I welcome you to email me at my personal email.
Tranette:
If you are still here, I wanted to explain why I think some people were suspicious about your initial post.
It has to do with your last name: Engram.
You see, in scientology, an “engram” is the term used for a memory, usually a traumatic one, of something that happened in a person’s life (or past lives) that is causing them problems in present time. Through the process of “auditing,” the person can get over those “engrams” and no longer allow them to affect their life. (This is my understanding. I’m a never-in; just a concerned observer.)
I hope this helps make sense of some of the replies to you.
Hello,
Thanks, I’m still here reading the blog and writing information to research. Thank, interesting to know. I truly appreciate the insight.
My aging brain and eyes read the headline as “Tampa Bay Charity Cotillion.”
Scientology is a very precise Science of deception, fraud and scamming.
There is a “tech” to it and that is what Scientologists learn…how to con and manipulate people out of money.
Scientologists LIE and deceive.
Stay far away from any Scientologist’s applying the “tech to their business – they can’t help it….the ideas on how to deceive and manipulate are implanted into their subconscious minds. They are not sane people…they are scam artists.
I don’t know one Scientologist who runs a legitimate business….they all want to get paid upfront before they do their jobs or deliver a service.
Then – they pawn off the shitty job they do to “qual” – who justifies how the job or service is okay…when it is not….JUST LIKE SCIENTOLOGY.
Out exchange criminal cons.
This is actually a question that occurred to me recently: How can a person spot a business run by a scientologist? Clearly some of them generate piles and piles of money–which they seem to be proud to just hand over to the cult. But I would hate to patronize any such business, so I wonder what the “warning signs” might be.
I would love to go to these events purely as a psychiatrist to observe the mentally ill. Like studying lab rats. Sorry…
This is just so typical of Scientology, hiding. I mentioned a week or so ago how the most observable aspect of having a couple of OT8s in the family is their unexpressed desire to selectively deny & hiding the fact they are Scientologists while being them with all the bells and whistles of Hubbardism seething just below the surface. Everyone else is wrong & doomed but them – it’s maddening, quite insane and presents them with a burden they have been brainwashed to accept. So sadly noble is the Scientologist! There’s a reason why albinos don’t last long in the wild – Scientologists are very similar and go to extraordinary lengths to camouflage their involvement in this so called religion. Yes… hiding is what Scientology is eventually all about. After all, source was forced to do it, so as to not go to jail!
It’s really sad when you see the newer Scientologists all gung-ho and full of beans, but when the reality of having all your money, valuables, time and family/friends professionally & without remorse taken from you it leaves a big hole where common sense used to be. Yet, they hang onto that thread of hope the tech MUST work, it has to… their investment in Scientology becomes so immense it becomes binding for the weak of mind. Scientologists haven’t realized it yet, but as a group they have already lost all face, individuals soon follow but are right for the pickings if they are ever silly enough to go to these events. There is no Bridge, except to disaster. All events at all Scientology Orgs or put on by Scientologists are toxic. Largest private relief force on the planet – yeah right!
yep, I was there all gong ho, I never thought at the time I’d be on the other side of the fence saying it’s a crock of shit. And here I am saying it’s bullshit.
WTF is wrong with you DM? Fess up.
” WTF is wrong with you DM? ”
Of course the party line within the bubble “That is a non-standard listing question” so He will not have to answer it.
Outside the bubble ……….. that is a very long list!
Yo Dave,
Time to take a cruise down to Cartegena and find the Ess Pee big boy. Yep, nasty job but someone’s got to do it and it might as well be You. I’d say it’s high time to slam Mr. Webber into some small room and begin with ” I am not auditing you” ! Better get that Napier fella pulled in as well Dave, there is a cannon that is not tied down and you need to get the goods on em!.
Nodoubtaboutit big fella, the pooch has been screwed in Colombia and someone will have to take a fall fer it! Who will it be Dave?
Hell, Newcomer, the Little Dwarf would have an easier time finding LRH’s spaceship hangar somewhere beneath the surface of Corsica! Or all that cash he left laying in various places over various lifetimes!
Very well put. “As a group they have lost face”. Eloquent.
To expand on this: can you imagine ANY other religion today trying to get converts by forming some group under some pretext or other, getting people to show up and participate in the ersatz purpose of said group and THEN springing it on these people that this group is actually a Roman Catholic, Jewish, Protestant or Muslim group with the TRUE purpose of converting you to their faith in this covert way, in this deceptive manner?
Looking back now, I see that when I joined Scientology the same thing was done to me. The same concept. I had NO interest in joining a religion.
I do NOT approve of organized religion (for ME, that is. For others, its fine, no worries, but its not for me and never has been. And, appearances possibly to the contrary, I am very tolerant of what others believe and practice so long as I’m left alone to believe what I like, and so long as no animals are harmed 🙂 )
Anyway, I got in as a reach for help via a type of therapy. “An applied spiritual philosophy”. Well, that was fine. I was fine with that.
But somehow, the “applied spiritual philosophy” morphed more and more solidly into a religion, with all the “You musts” and “You must nots” and other boring obligations associated with organized religion – in short, everything I didn’t like, didn’t want and didn’t need.
I apologize for being Off Topic here. But I just wanted to say that I have been coming here about once a week looking to find out when the next season of Leah Remini and Mike Rinder’s TV show “Aftermath” will premier. I just found an article today and so I wanted to post a link here to share with anyone else who may be interested.
https://ew.com/tv/2018/07/16/leah-remini-scientology-and-the-aftermath-season-3/
I just hope this link has not already been published on this site. I’ve been waiting for a long time for Season 3. I really liked both seasons of this show and I’m very much looking forward to Season 3.
I recommend clicking on this site.
That’s a good article. I can’t wait for Season 3!
I am waiting as well!
yep.
Me too. Religion was for those who could subside on faith. I loathed the idea of faith. I wanted science, I wanted proof, I wanted REAL.
I was not raised in a religion, but I wanted the answers to life. I couldn’t fathom the idea that no one knew the purpose of life and what happens when you die, and all that. It was inconceivable. (and I was so very young)
I allowed myself to be part of a “religion” only because of the explanation of it, how it was addressing us as immortal beings and thus fell under the heading of “religion”.
I’d never ever ever ever give a second of time to B.S. hopes and dreams not proven.
…………
40 years later…………………………….sigh.
Yeah, I love they way they’re trying to tart this up as some wanna-be Cannes Festival.
LOL, Bix!
Totally off topic but scientology-related: Janet Reitman’s excellent book “Inside Scientology” (pub. 2011) contains an interview with a young scientologist named Natalie Wallat. I don’t know of any other book in the anti-Scion canon that contains an interview with an active scientologist speaking off the cuff. Ms. Wallat was born into the cult and spoke highly of its educational program. I believe the family was in Florida, and I think she said she attended an Ivy League college and was headed for law school. Unfortunately my copy of the book did not make it out to WA State when we moved a few months ago, so I can’t check these facts.
Does the name ring a bell with anyone here, by chance? I’ve often wondered if she was still “in” or had made it out. I also wonder if she got “disciplined’ for giving that interview to a critical wog reporter (which probably depended on how much money her father forked over or how prominent he was in $cion). Any ideas? Thanks.
I think they’re getting downright brazen; they are so full of themselves, they actually think they can get away with this crap indefinitely. After all, it’s worked for the past what – 60 years? Who’s going to stop them? I think they’re in for a Big surprise; doesn’t the bible say, ‘and this too shall pass’ . . . . ? Nothing is forever; I, for one, am betting on it. They are slowly but surely digging their own grave, and they’re too Stupid to realize it!
Scientology is hardly charitable, or engaged in charity, in any normal sense (see below). Actually, I can’t imagine how Scientology would manage to re-define the word to even begin to fit with their egoistic, selfish, socially Darwinian “survival of the fittest” view of the world, and their established policy that it is ideologically “out exchange” to outright give anything to anyone else.
It would have to be similar to Hubbard’s and Scientology’s idea of human rights that is a strangely qualified and even fascistic one, such as that “Freedom is [only] for honest people” and those those not meeting such standards “should not have, in any thinking society, any civil rights of any kind” and that the final solution for many of those would be to “dispose of them quietly and without sorrow.” I don’t know how scientologists themselves justify their use of the term, unless they are ignorant of its real implications or cynically believe it’s what’s necessary to infiltrate society, or how outsiders and organizations fail to see through the charade and instead end up participating in some of these sorts of events.
Definition of charity
plural charities
1 a : generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering; also : aid given to those in need received charity from the neighbors
b : an institution engaged in relief of the poor raised funds for several charities
c : public provision for the relief of the needy too proud to accept charity
2 : benevolent goodwill toward or love of humanity The holidays are a time for charity and goodwill.
3 a : a gift for public benevolent purposes
b : an institution (such as a hospital) founded by such a gift
4 : lenient judgment of others The critic was liked for his charity and moderation.
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/charity
Scientology demonstrably is not aligned with “survival of the fittest, only an attempt at survival of the meanest, most aggressive, most reactionist. It NEVER is proactive, never calculates beyond the next over-reaction to perceived possible threats, no matter how minor and inconsequential. They never reaize that their draconian punishments might keep a few quiet for awhile, but make devout enemies out of many others or that their no-holds-barred shotgun (unfocussed) “defenses” ultimately give their targets fantastic advertisements they couldn’t afford to buy. Scientology is a study of the reactive mind in action.
O/T, but interesting
According to the latest cult junk mail (arrived today), total number of “Clears”: 69,675. That’s pretty low as it is, considering they’ve had almost 7 decades to use the most powerful tekk in the universe (lol).
Even worse considering a few questions: How many of those are still in? How many dead, blown, declared?
But let’s just “do da maff”. They claim there are 10-15 million $cientologists. Let’s be generous, and go with the lower number: 10 million. 69,675 is not even 1% of that. That’s like a rounding error. It’s almost as if not even $cientologists give a flying rodent behind about “Clear” let alone the Bridge.
Can you scan and publish somewhere? Or send to Mike? That would be super splendid, if so! The only “total clears” stat I’ve found so far is 6,879 for 1978 (WIS). And that was under Hubbard.
But let’s say it’s true… No really! No redos or multiple counts, no leaves, no declares, no deaths. 70,000 shiny clears, all in good standing, still fresh as a daisy. Cold-free. Tip top eyesight. Perfect memory. (coughßüllşhīt!!splutter).
Since 1950, that’s still only 70,000 clears
The world’s population, meanwhile, has grown by 5.1 billion people.
But wait! The Co$ now claims to produce 1 clear “every 90 minutes” (ISN NY2017/18)
Oh. Every 90 minutes, the world’s net population grows by 14,212 people.
So much for Deadline Earth.
To get ahead of the game they need to produce 3 clears every single second. That’s 94 million a year. 94 million! Just to scrape by.
Good luck!
That’s interesting, alright.
Last I saw as of about a year or two ago, and could tell from trying to read clear certificates being held up, they were issuing numbers in the 65,000 range. I don’t think they’re producing more than about 1,000 per year – as part of a push that has to soon run through what can’t be a pool of a several thousand possible candidates in their shrinking remaining membership, as we see in the relatively large number of older people in photographs of new “clears” – and so the 70,000 number may well count cases where people have had to re-do “clear” in recent years.
I gon’t believe they could produce 94,000,000 clears a year, even if they had the claimed 10,000,000 members worldwide. redefining f/ns alone must have stopped most pcs from advancing up the chart. PC has huge win and looks toward the auditor expectantly…. Nothing…. reconsiders their cog…. Still nothing from the auditor. needle packs up, TA rises, PC’s indicators get grey, then black, and PC leaves session, perhaps even physically. Examiner sees BIs, PC folder red-tagged. no WDAH — NO (actual) auditing past the mis-indicated f/n. PC crash afterwards is blamed on something else, someone else, ANYone other than the auditor who SHOULD have looked at the PC and said, “Yup, it’s floating.” no matter how adamantly the dwarfenführer enforces his suppressive alter-is.
In my experience, when the PC looks THAT bright and shiny, what the meter says is secondary. It’s time to stop and let the PC have his win, now.
They’d better leave of the word “Scientology” ! Toxic PR!
Greetings,
I have been working with the Church of Scientology for over 6 years. I have never been coerced or forced in becoming a Scientologist. I have even taken a few of their amazing courses at Tampa Org.
The Charity Coalition is a great platform for charity organizations to come together basically a lunch and learn. There you will learn about other agencies, network, collaborate and find other amazing agencies in the Tampa Bay Area to create partnerships. Yes, we know they are Church of Scientology. They definitely do not hide the fact they are Scientologist. They state it in their welcoming speeches.
I respect each person as an individual and their religion. I can’t fault someone on how they were raised religiously. I can look at their heart in what they do for the betterment of the community.. That’s my love and passion, I help others.
Yes, I teach Youth for Human Rights (our youth need to know), the Way to Happen which is a non religious common sense guide of morals and ethics our youth are no longer applying in their everyday life. Also, Drug Free World and Citizen Commission of Human Rights, I added due to my friend’s daughter who committed suicide, one who attempted suicide and a 12 years old who took her life in Hillsborough County.
Yes, I teach the love of God, but I also respect everyone’s faith. I could never crufiy my friends for being a Catholic, Methodist, Atheist, Jehovah Witness or Muslim. I look at them individually in what they do for others and the community. Plus, how they treat me. I love my friends at the church like my family.
I can’t speak on incidents at the church of Scientology. I have always stated what church don’t have issues or doing things out of order ? I’m not here to judge, but share the love of God.
As a community leader, I wanted to share my experience about the church. They do amazing things in the community. Yet, I have never been coerce no shape, form or fashion
Again, I respect everyone’s opinions… I simply wanted to share.. Thanks
Hi Tranette – thanks for your comment and sharing. I’m curious, you stated, “They do amazing things in the community.” Can you be more specific, what exactly has the church of scientology done?
Hello,
The Volunteer Ministries are volunteers who help local and international communities who are affected by disasters.
They have:
#Donated monies to local nonprofits
#Have workshop series to assist start-up businesses and nonprofits
#They recognize local humanatrians, Veterans and community leaders
#They sponsored a few of my events for the inner city youth Kids World
# We were able to raise money to give scholarships to minorities.
I just wanted to share my experience, but to any information can be shared I’m open. I just received I would assume a try to belittle me email…
God bless
Hello Tranette,
My thanks to you also for sharing your experience. Understood on all you’ve said.
As a Scientologist, are you aware that merely reading this blog can get you into severe ethics trouble with the Church of Scientology?
Do you read this blog regularly?
Or has someone from your org instructed you to post this defense?
Just wondering.
Hello,
I’m not Scientologist. I believe in God. I attend a Baptist Church. I don’t know anything their policies.
I work in the community with at risk youth educating them on Human Rights, the way to happiness and drug free World.
This is my first here.. I found the link. posted on the charity coalition page.
Thank you for your fair and open comment, Tranette Engram. If you are as open minded as you sound, I invite you to scroll around this site and find out what sort of organization you are “respecting.” It is far from the church it markets itself to be.
Thank you, you are genuinely appreciated, I will definitely view the site.. Thank you
Thanks for sharing, then.
If you have taken a few courses, then they almost certainly consider you a scientologist and probably count you as one in their “stats” – though apparently they haven’t told you, and haven’t required you to take out at least the standard “free” 6 month IAS membership, as they would have anyone except perhaps a special case who they were trying to “safepoint.” How do you feel about that?
What actual charity – as in the classic definition of, say giving money to people in need – have you ever seen Scientology engage in? Isn’t it then a bit disingenuous, if not even suspicious, that they are involved in a “charity coalition” that makes them look good, when they don’t believe in charity because it actually conflicts with their doctrine of “exchange”?
If you’re a Christian, do you believe that Satan is the great deceiver? If so, do you think evil would manifest as an obvious horned devil, or a convincing slick talker in suit? Are you aware that Scientology’s Hubbard studied in one of the occult lodges of his claimed “very good friend” Aleister Crowley, who called himself “The Beast 666” and was known as “the man who chose evil,” that Hubbard referred to himself similarly including as the Anti-Christ, and that the besides Hubbard’s Church of Scientology the other NRM spawned from Crowley’s Thelema is Anton LaVey’s Church of Satan?
Bottom line for me, I did not know. Yes, I believe in wolves in sheep clothing. I will set a date and time to view this site. I thank you for taking the time to share. God knows my heart…
You sound like a very nice person, Tranette. I’m glad you had wins with the Scientology tech. We on this blog merely want the abuses perpetrated by the Church of Scientology to cease. A number of us reading and posting here have had wins with the tech also, yet, when we were made aware of the abuses, cut ties with this organization. This kind of decision is a personal one. To make an informed decision, you can avail yourself of all the data and proceed as you see best.
Thank you, it’s definitely alot, but I’m open to learning more.
I didn’t mean to upset anyone, have them thinking I fake or sent by the church. I know this is something I must look into.
Tranette, thanks for coming back and engaging.
I’m sorry if you’ve gotten a bit of rough treatment here. I hope you can start to appreciate that while the “sheep” face of Scientology may have treated you with kid gloves because you’re useful to them, here we see the wolf face in the form of their OSA operatives (regular members are forbidden from engaging online) either sent to attack, or sometimes more cunningly to try to sway readers or disrupt discussions with false pretenses so common they are stereotypically known as “I’m not a scientologist, but…”
If you’re a Baptist, you might want to talk to Pastor Willy Rice in Clearwater, who seems to have figured out what Scientology is really about. Here are a couple of other references:
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2000/september4/8.93.html
https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/spiritual-life/5-things-christians-should-know-about-scientology.html
I was interested to see your response to questions about what you’ve seen Scientology do that might seem to be for the good. I’m hoping you might start to notice that Scientology and its front groups make efforts or even give money when it gains them recognition – and thus buys them a sort of acceptance – but that they never engage in actual charity themselves, such as helping the poor or disadvantaged, or donating directly to those in need.
And if you’ve been involved with The Way to Happiness, have you ever noticed how oddly qualified and guarded its principles are, compared to say the Ten Commandments, such as the equivocal language about “harmful lies” (assuming there must be non-harmful falsehoods that are acceptable), and how to “try to” treat others? Did you know that their internal teachings take that all further, that even the biggest lies can be “acceptable truths” if they serve a greater purpose, and that the Code of a Scientologist says “never fear to hurt another in a just cause” – with Scientology always being the greater purpose and just cause? That’s the kind of thinking that seduces people down the path of ultimately doing terrible, and evil, things.
And thanks again for your openness and willingness to learn.
Mike Rinder has a couple of pieces on this site for people like journalists dealing with Scientology, but none I can immediately find for those like you who they try to “safepoint” (Mike: hint). Here’s a TBT article in which Mike is interviewed, talking about about “safepointing” and Scientology’s “Special Zone Plan” approach to infiltrating society, including through civic groups:
http://www.tampabay.com/news/scientology/in-downtown-clearwater-scientologys-bid-for-an-expanded-role-is-a-matter/2318663
You are most welcome. ☺
After the pitfall, I wanted and needed to know ‘why’ to better understand. I definitely came with no cruel intentions. My sincere apologies to the community.
You stated Scientology and its front groups make efforts or even give money when it gains them recognition – and thus buys them a sort of acceptance –
–I have never accepted money. I’m not a 501(3)(c),but they have assisted me in other ways with my endeavors. I have merchandise or food purchased my the donors. I love my freedom. IRS and Jail don’t mix…
Yes, they have donated to various non profit organizations.
I have raised funds for scholarships at the Ft. Harrison Hotel. Which I have events scheduled to raise money for scholarships.
but that they never engage in actual charity themselves, such as helping the poor or disadvantaged, or donating directly to those in need.
-They have volunteered and spoke at the SHE events for those who are less fortunate, back to school drives, etc. I mentor boys and girl. Also, women empowerment and Mind Your Mind Mental Health and Wellness for families and entrepreneurs.
Yes, The WTH is a replica of the Bible 12 commandments. I teach all human right drug free World and CCHR.
My bubble has definitely been bursted.
I will read the links and reach out to Pastor Rice. Tomorrow, I have alot of questions..Saturday will definitely be interesting,
Tranette, I hope it’s clear that it’s now well understood that you came here with good intentions.
Whether it is money, goods, or assistance, I still think you will find that Scientology never gives anything away unless it in some sense “buys” them what they want in terms of positive public relations or acceptance in the local community – and thus they never engage in actual charity in the full, traditional meaning of the term. That’s based on a Scientology doctrine called “exchange” under which they believe it is wrong to do something for someone who can’t repay in some equal measure; they believe that the disadvantaged and even the ill and handicapped have “pulled it in” and should be left to their own devices, and may just need to die and reincarnate in “better condition” – and that to help the process along it may even be necessary “to dispose of them quietly and without sorrow.” In a piece of Hubbard’s Scientology “scripture” used in training staff and executives, called Responsibilities of Leaders, he gives many examples (often, like this, fancifully distorted to support his worldview) of how to act ruthlessly when it is seen as necessary means to an end, in the vein of this one, demonstrating their attitude towards the sick and the poor:
“A Venezuelan dictator once decided to stop leprosy. He saw that most lepers in his country were also beggars. By the simple expedient of collecting and destroying all the beggars in Venezuela an end was put to leprosy in that country.”
As for TWTH, I don’t think it’s as much a “replica” of traditional moral and ethical codes, as a deceptively revisionist, moral relativist one. That would be something in particular that you might want to talk to Pastor Rice about – I’m pretty sure he has some good insight into what is really going on with it. Really, would you tell a young child “don’t tell harmful lies” or just “don’t lie”? Why add the equivocation about “harmful,” which common sense tells us would lead even a child to find exceptions and justify telling lies – perhaps even ones that actually turned out to be harmful? Hmm….
Hello, thank you so much, I look forward to speaking to Pastor Rice. I reached out to a friend who’s active in the Clearwater community. I look forward to speaking with her about Pastor Rice. I truly thank you for the clarity.
Something here is unusual, ie “I have been working with the Church of Scientology for over 6 years. I have never been coerced or forced in becoming a Scientologist. I have even taken a few of their amazing courses at Tampa Org. ”
Do you have open access to Flag/Tampa Orgs without ever having reg’s chase you down or ring you incessantly ? For 6 years you say… What exactly entails “working” with Scientology in that context? What, from your perspective is the good for the community Scientology engages in that you support? You seem to indicate you support them, in fact all denominations that fit your criteria.
I’ve only known Scientology and lived with it for well over 20+ years, maybe I missed something.
How much money has this person paid out to keep “in good standing” with COS…..that was not mentioned in this statement.
Well, this person as you stated. Can tell you one thing I have not contribute a dime to ‘Keep in Good Standing’.
I contribute to my organization full-time in volunteering to helping those in need in our communities.
My contribution are donated from my husband, friends and partnerships. That’s my good standing
Thank you.
I am over the moon delighted that you have chosen you read much of the feedback in this blog. I am beyond relieved that our blogger “mwestern” has given you a head’s up on this “organization” that you have helped support.
I am a “never in”, but I’ve read all the books, & heard testimony in relation to how now former members were treated.
Please view the Aftermath TV series with Leah Remini & Mike Rinder….it will further enlighten you.
Thank you for all the truly positive help you give others, in today’s world we need to be very wise when we decide to support a cause. Not every organization is a worthy one.
One to self, you must use your head instead of your heart. I’m very passionate about what I do. Especially, helping others, I can’t apologize enough to the community, but in return I’m saying thank you.
I have written down the information. My drink went from wine to Jack Daniels. BOL! You have to laugh to keep from crying.. I will be working on being more aware. Once I receive my laptop. My will be making some changes. Thank you.
What a truly lovely person you are! I too have found myself often times in the same boat as yourself because I was always a “soft touch”. As years went by I learned the hard way that every thing isn’t always as it seems.
Dr Phil McGraw wrote a book entitled “Life Code” & I highly recommend it to everyone. It gives information on basically the way life is NOW, how to be mindful of “baiters” those who KNOW how to get what they want through not so nice ways. This book is a wake up call for ANYONE, including those “still in” and those now “out”.
There truly are needy people in the world, after much research & blog searching & looking into who actually IS “the real deal”, you’ll be able to direction your truly lovingly good intentions much more wisely.
I wish many good things for you.
I Yawnalot
I’m a community leader. My organization works with various agencies in the community including Youth for Human Rights, the Way to Happiness and Drug Free World. We work together and they volunteer at workshops, back to school drives, women empowerment, our gospel events, black history events, mental health and wellness, girl power, kids World, human trafficking and giving to families in need.. I assist displaced families and individuals with a disability..
No, I do not have access. I make appointments. The only time I’m called if there are event of interest or friendly conversation.
Now, when I first knew about the church there were some who where a bit aggressive. I know how to make a person step back real quick. I never had that problem again. I have never had anyone to try to force their religion on me at the church.
I respect anyone’s beliefs. I support my partnerships of people I work with. I work with people of all religion who volunteers with me. I work with friends and family who are Catholic. I assist regardless of race, color, belief etc.
As far as Human Rights, Way to Happiness, etc. I work with them in the community.
I thank you for your time. I will be setting a date and time to read the blog.. If there is something you would like to share I will be happy to read…you are genuinely appreciated.
OK, whatever floats your boat. I sure wouldn’t be fooling around with them.
The Church of Scientology has a severe reputation of unconscionable & criminal behavior while operating under the cover of the 1st amendment. That idea is more or less the opinion of lawyers…
I was basically telling you what I have done with them without know what I know now.. Yes, I have to make changes moving forward.
I wonder DM had Dan Sherman write that letter above supposedly by Tranette Engram. I wonder if she is real or someone the church made up to try to counter Mike’s article today.
Hello,
I’m definitely Tranette Engram
My organization is She Helps to Empower Inc. I made a post under the charity coalition. A young lady replied without stating reasons of her ranting and raving. Then, I shared my experiences here. All hell broke loose, I here to learn and understanding.
I was not disrespecting Mr. Mike I was sharing my story. I though the purpose of an open forum was to share, learn and grow. So, what I stated above is true in what have experienced. God bless and thank you
.
I though the purpose of an open forum was to share, learn and grow.
100% spot on.
It is why everyone’s perspective is welcome here. The only thing that is not is smearing/insulting other commenters. Some of that is inevitable as one person’s smear is anothers’ “fact”… But I try to keep it to a minimum.
Thank you Mr. Rinder,
My apologizes.
Question what does DM stands for? Thanks
DM stands for David Miscavige, the current head of Scientology. If you truly want information, I suggest you look at the articles listed at the top of this page – on the left under Mike’s photo. Or scroll down in this thread and re-read mwestern’s comment. Unfortunately, she did not make up one horrible fact in her list of why she can’t support this awful scam operating as a “church.” Many of the people here have suffered because of their involvement (begun in good faith, like yours) with Scientology. So – yes. You really hit a nerve. Plus some here are concerned lest you get sucked in and waste years and money. Good luck.
Thank, you I will read. Again, I meant no harm or cruel intent. My apologizes.
Here is how reasonable any other hate group/cult sounds with generic bland statements:
Greetings,
I have been working with the KKK for over six years. I have never been coerced or forced in becoming a KKK member. I have even attended a few of their amazing rallies in location [fill in blank].
….
I respect each person as an individual and their race. I can’t fault someone on the color of their skin. I can look at their heart and what they do for the betterment of their community… That’s my love and passion, I help others.
….
Yes, I teach white pride, but I also respect everyone’s skin color I could never crucify my friends for being black, white, or other races. I look at them individually and what they do for others and their community. Plus, how they treat me. I love my friends at the KKK like my family.
….
[you get the picture. Evil delusions humanized]
Well, I’m sorry you did not like what I said or how it was written. ..but that was funny
Hi Tranette, you seem lovely. Thank you for your nice comment. I love your surname 🙂
You say you cannot speak on any incidents at the church of scientology. Why ever not?
I guess if I was buying any sort of product or service, I would want to see the customer reviews to ensure I had sufficient knowledge to make an informed opinion.
If I was thinking of engaging with any organisation, be it religious, political, social, whatever, I would want to know of its true nature and activities before I became associated with it. Not just to see how nice certain individuals are but to determine the actions of the entire group – across all of its endeavours.
I couldn’t knowingly and willingly support an organisation that forces members to cut ties with friends and family members.
I couldn’t support an organisation whose leader has beaten, tortured, humiliated and imprisoned people against their will.
I couldn’t support an organisation that uses the law to harass, suppress and destroy those who criticise it.
I couldn’t support an organisation that uses PIs to stalk former members, that engages in vicious dirty tricks campaigns to intimidate and silence those who fall from favour.
I couldn’t support an organisation that lies about its religious beliefs and misleads people regarding the nature and efficacy of its practices.
I couldn’t support an organisation that uses extreme high-pressure techniques to extract money from vulnerable members, fully knowing the suffering and hardship it will cause.
Tranette, you should know there are many people on this blog who have suffered horrific abuse within this organisation. You may hear from a few who haven’t seen their loved ones in many years. Decades, even. Please try to imagine what that must feel like. To be told by your church that you can never speak to your mother again. Your father. Your son or daughter. Your grandparents. Your best friend. Simply because they held true to the articles listed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. A document I know you value. Try to imagine yourself on the other side of it. Being told by your children that they can never contact you again…
It’s a true horror and injustice that no human being should ever face. Ever.
But it is the policy of the Church of Scientology and it is upheld every single day. It can be found within a “policy letter” dated 23rd December 1965, revised 8th January 1991, entitled “Suppressive Acts, Suppression of Scientology and Scientologists”.
So keep this in mind at the next event you attend. The next lunch you tuck into. Or when the nice, smiley man on the podium cracks a joke. There is a truth that is being kept hidden from you. And remember…you can speak afterall. If you so choose.
“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” — MLK Jr.
Mwestern, this retort is absolutely eloquent. I apologize not only to you, but to Ms.P, Briget, PeaceMaker, IYawnalot, ctempster, and SteveP as well. I read Tranette ‘Engram’s diatribe and thought, ’poseur for sure; I won’t dignify this with an acknowledgement’. Well, I Was Wrong! You Were Right to call this ‘Person’ out for what ‘It’ is. Not surprisingly, there is No Reply to any of your comments, nor will there be, and That says it all. I salute you! (No pun intended)
He took the time to explain, I apologize and appreciate the enlightenment.
mwesten,
I can’t speak on what I don’t about the church. I mainly worked with the human right, way to happiness and drug free world.
I thank you for taking the time in sharping ‘Why You Should Know ‘.
Oh My God, all I can say is please forgive me I did not know. I just saw the post about the charity coalition clueless to it all. My God! my heart goes out to those families… I am speechless!
I thank you for educating me on how I need to move forward in being mindful in whom I work with. If you don’t mind I’m going to copy and print what you wrote and frame. The love I have for helping people I don’t want to continue to make wrong choices.
I’m sorry I did not know .
Hi Tranette,
Thanks for your reply. No problem at all. I really respect and admire you for wanting to find out more. I appreciate there is a lot to take in and it can sometimes be overwhelming.
I’d definitely recommend watching the Emmy-winning A+E TV series Scientology & The Aftermath. http://bit.ly/2wibN2R
The multiple award-winning HBO documentary Going Clear should also be on your watch list. https://www.hbo.com/documentaries/going-clear
Some of the language in scientology, which can often be found on various websites and blogs (including this one), can be confusing. Feel free to ask if you ever get stuck on a particular word or phrase. There are also a fair few scientology glossaries available on the web.
Alternatively, you can download an official church dictionary at http://bit.ly/2Mw9qoh (pdf)
If you’re into books/e-books, then my personal faves are:
– Blown For Good by Marc Headley
– Beyond Belief by Jenna Miscavige
(the niece of David Miscavige, the church’s leader)
– The Unbreakable Miss Lovely by Tony Ortega
So much pain and suffering has been caused by this organisation and sometimes that pain is expressed via anger or hostility – as with some of the other responses you’ve received here. It’s easy to forget that even in the world of Google there are some who don’t yet fully grasp what really goes on behind closed doors. That you’re open and willing to learn more, however, shows real integrity and courage – and I commend you for that.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. ?
My God! It’s definitely alot and overwhelmly. I was speaking with close friends. She was Googling COS. Then, an article on Christopher King. appeared OMG!. I was once apart of his organization. To read these comments and stories are disheartening. I know I must read and research. I can’t say sorry enough and thank you
Tranette-
Wow. I love that instead of getting defensive you are willing to listen and learn. Thank you for that. I’m pretty sure after a bit of research you will decide you can no longer associate with their “charity” groups. Just in case though, I want to let you know most of the info they use in their anti drug literature is either out of date or flat out wrong. From your posts I get the impression you truly want to help others…but providing wrong information isn’t helpful and in this case can be dangerous.
Again, thanks for listening and being open to learning the other side. Since this subject is so big, it might be easier to start in one place. The doc film Going Clear or the Aftermath series would be a great place to start.
You’re welcome, I was a bit upset because I had clue and understanding. I’m always open to listen..
I will not use the drug free World…
I need an understanding of the literature I’ve been using.
I just recently started with CCHR. I friends daughter committed suicide, one attempted twice and a 12 yro committed suicide.. I created Mind Your Mind Series. I don’t want to teach outdated and wrong literature.
Tranette,
My husband and I are Christian and have always tried to be accepting and understanding of others beliefs (or lack thereof) so when he was hired by a company owned by Scientologists, we approached it exactly as you have described. I’m very involved in mission/outreach work and when I heard “all that they do” I felt the same way you described above.
I’m sorry if you’ve received harsh responses at times and so glad you came to this blog (as there are wonderful people willing to explain and be very gracious)!
At first, everyone from the COS (“Church” of Scientology) was quite nice to us and wanted to support my efforts as I worked as a local and international missionary. But as they tried harder and harder to recruit my husband, and eventually me, they decided that my work through our church was “creating a block” in my husband accepting and becoming part of Scientology and that I was “holding him back from producing all that he could and his ultimate success.” I was pregnant with our first child and he was being told that he needed to hurry and recognize that I was blocking his best opportunities at success (making money) so this was the best time for him to consider “changing paths” (meaning to leave me and our marriage).
There are definitely some twisted individuals, but also very damaging policies within this “church.” You sound like someone with an incredibly good heart who is trying to love others without judgment and help your community at large. As someone who also has a huge heart for others, I completely understand that! No apologies needed – more people like you who want to help are needed in this world. Many of us just want to make sure you know you’ve encountered a wolf in sheeps clothing in these groups and don’t want to see you become another person that they hurt or take advantage of!
Glad you’re here, you sound like someone who works hard to help those around you.
Thank you, I’m definitely interested in learning more, tomorrow I began to look over the links, buy start off with Clear then go from there. I will have my laptop. This phone is not good ..but I truly thank everyone..
“I can’t speak on incidents at the church of Scientology.”
You can. You choose not to.
“I have always stated what church don’t have issues or doing things out of order ?”
Well then, i guess there is nothing to do.
What society don’t have issues or doing things out of order on race? Guess we’ll just throw our hands in the air and do nothing about it.
Well, if you would have asked me what I meant. I would have shared.. I don’t know anything about the church history nor did I know the extent of this matter.
MWesten, Peacemaker and others took the time to explain about the church, it’s history and abuse.
Yes, all churches have situations, but hell! As if I know this part.
I forgive you… God bless
OK. 6 years seems a long time to me to know nothing about an organization you have involvement with, but OK. It wasn’t on your radar.
Good luck with the work you are doing. Good luck with researching the organizations you choose to work with.
I knew about the entities I have mention working with over the years. I meet them through reputable partnering agencies in the community. I had no reason to doubt their character and integrity.
As for the church, I never heard anything until now… I’m open and listening.
Moving forward, I will be speaking with Pastor Rice, watching and reading
Tranette, I think that anyone who has been in Scientology, or is a seasoned observer, understands that they and their various front-group tentacles are practiced and polished at taking people in.
It occurs to me that while we’ve now discussed that people here can be suspicious of newcomers because Scientology sometimes sends it OSA operatives, you may also want to take into consideration that means that their intelligence operations know what has gone on here. Whichever scientologists you deal with, will almost certainly have been instructed to handle you, first by trying to convince you that you’ve been mislead and misinformed, and then by trying either inducements or even threats.
One point I would suggest that you and others consider regarding any involvement with Scientology and its front groups, are that their staff and particularly Sea Org (who may not be wearing uniforms) are essentially ongoing victims of human trafficking, working under abusive conditions that would violate “fair trade” principles just for buying coffee or clothes. Staff generally get paid under $50 per week with no benefits, and are expected to work up to 100 hours per week; Sea Org are likely to earn less and work more under forced labor camp conditions, are subject to prison camp type punishments, and if they are foreign workers will have had their passports confiscated and will be threatened with jail for trying to go to the authorities (the TWTH principle against false witness, doesn’t apply to the scientologists tasked with “recovering” fleeing staff). Yes, Scientology actually has the gall to organize and staff “human rights” events, including ones focusing on human trafficking, with these human trafficked and abused workers – Hubbard even said that “incredulity” benefitted them, because people wouldn’t believe that a “church” would do what they were actually doing.
Another point to consider is that some of any money going to or raised for those front groups – including for purchases of materials – will end up back in Scientology’s coffers through large licensing and management fees they have to send “uplines.” When it gets back to their higher-level entities like CST and IAS, it funds things like harassment of enemies, including former members and independent practitioners of Scientology (the principle of respect for religious beliefs doesn’t apply if it involves their own “squirrels” and “apostates”), and even women who have gone to law enforcement to report sex crimes:
https://tonyortega.org/2018/08/25/video-danny-masterson-accuser-confronts-stalker-outside-her-los-angeles-home/
Peacemaker Thanx for that perfect explanation!
Tranette,
You are much more valuable to the churches ‘safepointing’ activities as an ally and also someone who can ‘attest’ that you have never been coerced into ‘anything’ by them.
Rest assured that the order has come down from above to ‘leave her alone’. Consider yourself lucky.
Please don’t think I’m taking this lightly. This is horrible. I will definitely read Mr. Rinder’s blog and research.
Hi Tranette: Thanks for sharing.
Hope things don’t go TOO badly for you when the truth of $ientology finally becomes clear in your little bubble universe.
Hello,
Thanks, I’ve definitely been in a bubble universe about alot of things. I can definitely say this is a wake call. No, bad will happen
I think we should give Tranette the benefit of the doubt at this point and not pile on her. If she were OSA she’d just troll and disappear, troll and disappear. Its entirely possible that she was curious and googled “Scientology” or something related and happened on this blog! And had the courage to communicate, to post to all of us! Should we punish and insult her for communicating? She has responded to individual questions from a number of us in detail and in a very kind manner. Its very possible that she is simply a very helpful person! What do we have to lose by giving her the benefit of the doubt and allowing her to communicate her experience with the cult? After all, many of US didn’t know about the cult’s abuses when WE were in! I know I didn’t! And she HAS said that she’ll continue reading and posting here, and do more research elsewhere on the cult. Would OSA say that? Please, I’m not trying to be RIGHT. I just think we should reserve judgement for now and give her a chance to get informed. That’s all.
Thank you, I’m truly who I say I am. She Helps to Empower Inc is my organization. I have been attending the charity coalition for 4 years collaborating with other local nonprofits, businesses and volunteers.
I had not attended in awhile due to my husband’s condition. I post on the page I look forward to see everyone. Kaboom! A young lady commented on my post.
She posted a link.. Unaware, I shared my experiences.
I can’t apologize enough…
Yes, I’m reading, responding and going to come back. I truly want to learn and understand.
I’m real
Tranette Engram
Facebook or Google
http://www.shehelpstoempowerme
@nspire
Mind Your Mind Series Mental Health and Wellness
I appreciate the community
They messed up, they used the word scientology in the description, even if they waited until paragraph 4. If I was reading about it and made it to paragraph 4, I would then click on something like watching baby giraffes being born or something.
Even if I didn’t know it was scientology it sounds, in a word … overblown.
On a rough count of heads of those participating the total is about 20 people.
Massive contraction indeed.
Why don’t they just say Hairspray? Is JT’s drag act not pulling them in anymore?
20 bucks says Networking = Regging.
You’d be lucky to leave with twenty bucks!
I’m not about to throw twenty bucks away, Mick. Find another taker.
The ONLY reason you HAVE $20 is that you are not a member of COS…..
Wow
There is no cost to get in the event but I’m guessing it costs a fortune to get out.
And you would be correct. Easy to get in. Much, MUCH harder to get out.
Just glad we live halfway across the country, so no way to be bothered by these people. How they think people would be interested, knowing that we know who it is putting it on, boggles my mind.
Unless you search on 500 Cleveland street, you won’t know that it is the $cientology Information Center. I am surprised that no fake attendees have ‘signed up’ yet. I am guessing the everybody in the area already knows to keep away from that part of town.
Good English: “Schedule” or “Schedule of events”
Scientologese: “The schedule is as follows”
Love it. A colon after ‘schedule’ would have don sufficed.
Oops, the ‘don’ was a typo done in haste; mea culpa.
Huge turn out for the bait and switch. NOT!
I live a good distance from Clearwater, but even so, all these great things that scientology does just don’t seem to make the national news here. Interesting.
Lol! Well said!
How odd they didn’t name the “upbeat, musical film” so attendees can watch the trailer online and check out what awards it has been nominated for at other film festivals! Or, perhaps the only other showings have been on Scientology TV? An unnamed Official Selection. Curious?
Featuring films about:Forced abortions for married couples,third world slave trafficking,advanced extortion tek, bait and switch tactics for the next millennium,black belt conjobs and many more!
Even when I was in, I would have had zero interest in this. Zip. Nothing. Nope, the Interest Pot is empty, scraped clean.
I can’t imagine locals being interested in this – as soon as you see where to pick up the pass…hahaha!
…
Scientology’s go-to promotional strategy: “Let’s see if we can trick you into coming in”
Seems to me that their whole strategy for recruitment is to “trick them into coming in”. Hard pressure sales tactics, false claims of saving the human race… completely ridiculous.
That’s right, and the premier trick employed is avoidance of the word “Scientology”.
And that’s because Scientology is so toxic.
OSD:
“And that’s because Scientology is so toxic.
”
IKR, particularly in Clearwater. Locals would have had to be on another planet these past 40+ years not to know about $cientology’s dirty tricks in the local area, especially as their taxes soar as $CN refuses to pay for their share of municipal services.
Just think: here’s a religion, that, in order to sell itself, in order to convert people to its philosophy, is obliged to NOT name itself!
Aqua – exactly. And per Hubtard, where is “hiding” on the tone scale? lol
Yes, it’s really nutty – and … reflection readily gives me all the “justification” we had for all the trickery, because this has been part and parcel to Div 6 since the beginning.
“It’s for their own good, they have bank that tells them “no”, we just need to get past all the wog/bank PTS to Middle Class, succumb postulate, low on awareness characteristic chart,” etc.
We were tricking them for their own good.
…….
Puke.
……you know…. in a way….
for people who “can’t understand how anyone would fall for it”….. “how anyone could ever be a part of it”…..
the answer tells you just how viciously trapping the whole thing IS.
The harder it is to understand leads to the scope of the power of the trap.
……..
and this makes what Mike and Leah and the gang are doing…. all the more needed, appreciated, and heroic.